FINALLY, AFTER 30 YEARS

 Update: 

Buin town from the air

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BUIN AIRSTRIP WILL BE OFFICIALLY OPENED TODAY

Buin airstrip 

After being closed for over 30 years, Buin airstrip will be officially re-opened today.

A test flight carrying local South Bougainville MP Timothy Masiu arrived at Buin on yesterday to much joy and fanfare.

He was accompanied by ABG Secretary for technical services Sione Pasia.

The airstrip is one kilometres long and can accommodate all light aircraft, the biggest being a twin otter.

The airstrip closed during the 10 year Bougainville crises during which time it was used by the PNG Defence Force.

Proud local MP Timothy Masiu speaking to women. Mothers and children needing urgent medical attention can be evacuated by air.

After the peace agreement, it fell into disrepair and was eventually reclaimed by overgrowth.

But with a vision to reopen South Bougainville in preparation for Independence, Buin and Turiboiru have both being redeveloped.

On a caravan balus, it takes 50 minutes from Buka direct to Buin.

By vehicle from Buin to Buka takes almost 8 hours by road and so the flying option makes good for business, movement of passengers and cargo faster. 

Public servants and goods and services can also be moved faster and on time with no delays.

Turiboiru airstrip will be re-open next.

All pictures by SIONE PASIA of ABG TECHNICAL SERVICES.